For Families and Carers : Getting Older

Ageing together – Families Getting Older

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for people with Down’s syndrome is between 50 and 60 years with small numbers reaching their 70s and beyond. Greater numbers of adults are leaving the family home and, with support, they are leading fulfilling and active lives in their communities. There is information about healthy ageinghere

Thinking about the future – first steps

Although it can be a difficult process emotionally, it is never too early to start thinking and talking about plans for the future. It will take time to gather the information that you need from your relative with Down’s syndrome and to work with Social Services to make sure that the right support is in place when you and your relative need it. Talk to your relative with Down’s syndrome about their wishes and hopes. You can read more about supporting people to make decisions in our factsheet about the Mental Capacity Act. Involve those who are close to your relative in discussions (e.g. siblings, friends, supporters) about planning for the future. This can be the first step in creating a Circle of Support for your relative. Other parents are always a good source of information about local support. DSA can put out a request via Social Media for other families in your area.